World premiere: WOW* testdrive of the brand new Maserati Quattroporte in the South of France

Yes, we tend to call ourselves lucky bastards, especially if somebody asks us if we would like to take the brand new Maserati Quattroporte (the sixth-generation of this über elegant Italian beast) for a spin in the South of France where harsh winter temperatures are replaced by sunny blue skies and the roaring engine of the Quattroporte. Even before the thrilling Quattroporte is officially introduced at the Detroit Motor Show mid-january 2013 we’re cruising the mediterranean basin with the feel of real Gods. The engine sound and the gorgeous looks make heads turn in total admiration, even in the posh surroundings of Nice where people are used seeing the better things in life.

The flagship of the Maserati range, the Quattroporte is larger, ligther, more luxurious, more secure and more practical than the globally acclaimed car it replaces. With a 307 km/h (190,76 miles/hour) top speed and 530 horsepower it’s also as fast as most two-door supercars. The sixth generation Quattroporte delivers a leap forward that not only sets the high-technology tone for Maserati’s upcoming new-model onslaught, but also remains faithful to Maserati’s long history in luxury sport sedans. The all-new architecture retains Quattroporte’s traditionally exquisite handling thanks to its 50:50 weight distribution, a double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link rear suspension.

One thing’s for sure: although its damn sexy looks, this Quattroporte has not strayed from Maserati’s roots. Moreover, the rear-drive twin turbo V8 is not only the fastest and most powerful four-door Maserati ever built, but also the most fuel efficient as well. Matched to an eight-speed automatic ZF transmission, the direct-injection 3.8 litres V8 was designed by Maserati Powertrain and is assembled by Ferrari in Maranello. It sets Maserati’s new performance benchmark, reaching 100km/h (62,14 miles/hour) in just 4.7 seconds and reaching 200 km/h (124,28 miles/hour) in only 14.7 seconds. It’s top speed is also 20 km/h (12,43 miles/hour) faster than the outgoing Quattroporte Sport GT S and it has 200Nm more torque as well.

Traditional hand crafted detailing continues in the Quattroporte’s cabin, and this has been added with even more interior space in all seats, and both four- and fiveseat layouts. Cabin luxury leaps forward technically too with lush features like the Maserati Touch Control Screen, reversing cameras and the optional 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system as well as WLAN-based WiFi and compatibility with most modern mobile phone systems. Like like like !

WOW_Pascal

Loves to play around (and get serious) with new (cross) media . Lover of lovely people . Totally into huge stories on design, people, food, trends, wheels, travel and everything that is heartfelt . Recommended by 4 out of 5 people that recommend things . Grasper of the big picture . Fierce by nature (even when mowing the lawn). Mumbles when in doubt. Inventor of the yoga principle based around baking pancakes . Never loud yet consistently goal achieving . Always on top of new stuff to come (self proclaimed future watcher who’s often right about his predictions). Total craving for coffee and French pastry in the morning.